At work!
Embarking on a career in policing is undoubtedly one of the most valuable and fulfilling professions.
In 2011, Chris Chandler-Yates embraced this honorable path as a Constable with the New Zealand Police.
Over the subsequent seven years, he seamlessly transitioned through four diverse roles, encompassing frontline duties, traffic management, and protection services.
However, the demanding nature of policing became glaringly evident. In a matter of weeks, Chris found himself confronting an overwhelming amount of trauma compared to civilian life. Unaware and lacking a safe space to effectively process it, he faced the equivalent of 18 lifetimes of civilian trauma within just his first 12 months as a police officer.
Initially, Chris dismissed this heightened exposure to trauma as simply "part of the job." Unfortunately, he internalized the distress without a proper outlet, straining his relationships. Deprived of a secure space to discuss and release these accumulated traumas, he hovered perilously close to becoming a grim statistic of the system – at risk of divorce, addiction, unemployment, or worse.
Recognising the critical need for immediate debriefing, Chris identified two crucial elements that many departments and squads still struggle to implement to this day. Firstly, the importance of debriefing on a daily or weekly basis with like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges of policing. Secondly, the significance of doing so with people outside of one's own work environment, enabling a more open and anonymous space for sharing experiences.
Motivated by his experiences, Chris founded the "FREE Debriefing Room" for Police Officers. This platform acknowledges the vital role of timely and regular debriefing in law enforcement. By fostering an environment where individuals can connect with those outside their immediate work circle and remain anonymous, it grants greater power to process and learn from the experiences of others, ultimately contributing to the well-being of the entire policing community.
When you join a group of police officers from around the world to talk about your shifts, it's like having a big group of friends who understand exactly what you're going through. You can share your experiences, and they can share theirs, making you feel supported and not alone. Plus, you can do it without revealing your name if you want, keeping things private.
Imagine if you could learn cool tricks and tips from police officers in different parts of the world. By debriefing with them, you get to hear about their experiences and pick up new skills. It's like having a bunch of superhero mentors helping you become even better at your job. And the best part is, you can share and learn without everyone knowing who you are, giving you a bit of anonymity.
Everybody has tough days, even police officers. When you talk about the hard stuff with your global police buddies, it's like letting out a big breath you've been holding. It helps you feel better and less stressed, just like when you share your feelings with your family or friends. And guess what? You can share your feelings without revealing your identity, keeping things between you and your friends.
Imagine doing something awesome at work and having friends from all over the world to celebrate with. When you debrief with other officers, you can share your successes, and they'll cheer you on. It's like having a global fan club that's always there to lift you up. You can share your victories without everyone knowing it's you, giving you the choice to keep things private.
It's important to feel connected to others, especially when your job is tough. Being part of a group of police officers from around the world is like having a big, global family. When you feel connected, it helps you stay mentally and emotionally healthy, just like having strong roots keeps a tree healthy. And the cool thing is, you can build these connections without everyone knowing who you are, allowing you to keep your privacy.
Sometimes, work problems can feel like big puzzles. When you debrief with officers from different places, it's like putting your puzzle pieces together with theirs. You can help each other figure things out and become a super problem-solving team, making your job easier and more fun. And the best part is, you can be part of this team without everyone knowing your identity, giving you the power of anonymity.
Remember, joining this global group of police officers is like having a superpower – the power of friendship, support, and anonymity that makes your career and life stronger and happier. And its 100% free
I originated from California, USA, and my life took an unexpected turn at the age of 13 when my parents decided to embark on a five-year sailing journey around the world with my brother and me. Our adventure led us to New Zealand, particularly Auckland, which I now proudly call home. Entering the New Zealand Police force, I was driven by a sincere desire to contribute to making the world a better place.
However, 18 months into the job, the harsh realities of policing hit me hard. A fellow constable was assaulted on duty, and I encountered multiple suicides where I had to deliver heartbreaking news to the victims' families, all within a short span. Struggling with the weight of these experiences and finding no safe space to express my emotions, I began losing touch with myself and the ideals that initially led me to pursue this career. Instead of contributing to positive change, I felt isolated and incapable of understanding my own world.
This turbulent period resulted in a deep-rooted urge to escape from everything and everyone I held dear. Burnt out, I grappled with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and paranoia. My mental state left me barely existing, and the job I once cherished had, unfortunately, become the source of my illness. This struggle persisted for seven years on the force, prompting me to realize the urgent need for change. Determined to reclaim control over my life, I sought answers to restore my well-being.
Guided by the support and connection of a close-knit community, I recognized the transformative power of understanding oneself authentically, peeling away the layers of masks we wear. It became clear that true effectiveness and fulfillment arise when we comprehend our genuine selves. Drawing from extensive coaching, science-based exploration, personal development, and collaborative research not only on myself but with others, I have developed a proven method to rediscover happiness and health.
This journey underscores the significance of having a supportive tribe – a group of people who keep you on track, provide unwavering support, and truly understand you. Through this experience, I've come to appreciate the profound impact that genuine connection and self-awareness can have on creating a fulfilling life at every turn.
12 Week Police Fitness Programming
12 Week Access to our fitness app
12 Week access to the Police Entry Prep Community for continuous daily help and assistance
12 Week access to Police Fitness Prep Police Mental Performance Program
12 Group Coaching Calls to make sure that you are kept accountable and get time to breakdown whats stopping you from achieving your results
Weekly push-up analysis
Daily strength training analysis
Fitness programming till you go to Police College
Weight loss or gain assistance
Psychometric test training
Initial Police application interview preparation
Police Application final interview preparation
The Elite Police Officer Series Fitness Plans
Lifetime fitness programming
Lifetime Mental Wellness Coaching
1 free 30 min PT session at your gym
1 month top membership for Psychometric test prep with Edvance.co.nz ($150 value)
1-1 fitness or mindset coaching where and when needed for first 6 months
Free access to all future virtual events and programs
Weekly Group Debriefing Zoom Calls
Access to the Private Police Debriefing Community for continuous daily connection
100% free
Lifetime access to all of the below
Police Fitness Programming
Access to our fitness app
Life time access to the Police Entry Prep Community for continuous daily help and assistance
12 Week access to Police Fitness Prep Police Mental Performance Program
Weekly Group Coaching Calls to make sure that you are kept accountable and get time to breakdown whats stopping you from achieving your results
Weekly push-up analysis
Daily strength training analysis
Fitness programming till you go to Police College
Weight loss or gain assistance
Psychometric test training
Initial Police application interview preparation
Police Application final interview preparation
The Elite Police Officer Series Fitness Plans
Lifetime fitness programming
Lifetime Mental Wellness Coaching
1 free 30 min PT session at your gym
1 month top membership for Psychometric test prep with Edvance.co.nz ($150 value)
1-1 fitness or mindset coaching where and when needed for first 6 months
Free access to all future virtual events and programs
We have a thorough vetting process. When you apply, we request specific details such as your station, ID or badge number, and ask questions related to policing. Doubtful applications trigger a verification process, which may include a Zoom call to confirm your identity and ensure that only legitimate police officers become part of the group.
We take privacy seriously. Your personal information will be kept confidential, and you can choose to participate without revealing your identity. Your discussions will be in a secure and private environment.
Absolutely. We have clear guidelines promoting respectful communication. Disagreements are handled with sensitivity, and the focus is on creating a supportive community. Any form of harassment or disrespect is not tolerated.
Your identity remains secure during our weekly group debrief Zoom calls. You have the option to keep your video turned off if you prefer. Additionally, you can customize your displayed name to whatever you feel comfortable with, allowing you to maintain your privacy as much as you desire. It's important to note that our vetting process is conducted during the initial joining phase to ensure the authenticity of all members.
Chris Chandler-Yates is in charge of facilitating the calls. As a former member of the New Zealand Police, he underwent his own mental health journey resulting from his experiences in law enforcement. Since leaving the police force, Chris has dedicated his time to self-development and facilitating group programs. His focus is on helping police officers and first responders develop themselves to avoid encountering the challenges he faced both as an officer and as a human.
Trust is crucial, and we take it seriously. Discussions within the group are strictly confidential. Although we can not 100% stop people from talking, members are reminded of the importance of maintaining the privacy of shared experiences and information. Any breach of this trust is taken seriously and could result in removal from the group.
Participation is voluntary, and you have control over what you share. You can contribute as much or as little as you're comfortable with. The goal is to provide a supportive space, and you decide how much information you want to disclose.
Yes, joining and participating are entirely voluntary. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or decide it's not for you, you can leave the group without any obligations. We do encourage you to give us regular feedback to prevent anyone from feeling uncomfortable as we want this to be a positive experience for all participants.
© 2023 Knocking Demon Ltd
Chris has founded the " FREE Debriefing Room" for Police Officers. He acknowledges the critical importance of offering a space for law enforcement professionals to share, process, and support one another in navigating the unique challenges of their profession.